Yet, there was Rudock on Wednesday making a subtly great play that contradicted all of his humility. Near the goal line, Rudock took the snap, felt the pocket collapsing and threw a shovel pass to running back Zach Zenner, who ran it in for the touchdown.
“I slid up in the pocket and found him,” Rudock said. “Just try to manipulate (defenders) with your eyes a little bit. No, it was sweet. It felt cool.”

It was more than that. It was a winning play, the kind that distinguishes an average player from a difference-maker who can tip the scales in a game. It’s also rare to see such a heads-up play from a second-year backup quarterback.

“I mean, every quarterback has to improvise at some point,” Rudock said. “It’s in my arsenal? That just seems like way too far out there.

“But you’ve got to be able to try to do different things that look kind of weird. I’ve seen (Matthew Stafford) make some crazy-type of throws sometimes, some hellacious throws that he’s got in his arsenal, as you put it. You just try to make a play, honestly. You’re just trying to get the athletes the ball.”

The Lions had to quickly move their practice indoors Wednesday after severe weather hit Allen Park, so Rudock wasn’t sure if any film of his play existed because of the logistical disruption. It would be a shame if it didn’t, because the film would illustrate another example of the smarts Rudock is pairing with his speed and improved strength.

“It’s helpful,” coach Jim Caldwell said of Rudock’s quickness and versatility. “I mean, that’s one of his strengths. I think he’s probably a little bit faster and a little bit more athletic then what one might think. But, you know, movement is always good, I think.”